True Equity Breathes Diversity and Inclusion - 8/1/2022

Conversation Overview

A note from our guest conversationalist, Dr. Dinga:

When Equity is done right, Diversity and Inclusion follow. I intend to share with the group how I define Equity and the gaps in impartiality within higher education. There are four primary reasons for the Equity Gaps which will be discussed. With that in mind, I will share a few suggestions I created in my previous role as Director of Diversity and College Access at the University of Wisconsin, Stevens Point. Finally, and most importantly, I would like to use the bulk of the time to answer questions from the group. I will be pleased to address any concerns or ideas related to these topics. The strategies and implementation process for any campus will experience trial and error. I look forward to discussing ways that can lead to a successful program.

Dr. Sam Dinga is originally from Cameroon, West Africa. Sam studied Law and Political Science at the University of Dschang (chang) before migrating to the United States in 2002. At the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point, he earned a degree in Sociology, a Master's degree in Human & Community Resources, and a doctorate in Higher Education Leadership from Edgewood College in Madison, Wisconsin. Sam was a two-time winner of the Chancellor's Leadership Award and was also selected for the prestigious Albertson Medallion Award while attending UW-Stevens Point.

Right out of college, Sam was employed by the Boys & Girls Club of Portage County as Program Director and rose to the Director of Operations position. His career progressed as he joined the Noel Group/AIG and was later recruited by UWSP. He accepted a role as their Scholarship & Internship Coordinator and later became the Director of Diversity and College Access. Sam currently works as the Equity Diversity and Inclusion Coordinator for the Stevens Point Area Public School District. 

Sam is married to a fellow Pointer, Amy, and they have four kids, ages 14, 12, nine, and seven. Sam likes to read or listen to audiobooks, follow national and international politics, watch action movies, and grill out with family and friends in his limited spare time. An integral effort is committed to raising funds and managing his non-profit organization, the Makah Foundation, which began in 2010. In honor of his late sister, Ma kah Rosemary Dinga, Sam continues to work diligently in his proprietary endeavors that benefit the citizens of Cameroon. Sam serves on the boards of the Boys & Girls Club of Portage County, Noel Compass Scholar Program, Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin, President of Makah Foundation Board, Portage County Cultural Festival Board, Current President of the Wisconsin Area Council, and a member of the Rotary Club.

Jacqueline Rose is a happily married wife of 30+ years and mother of two wonderful daughters. Her professional career has supported educational opportunities and social justice reforms for over 20 years. Jacqueline's implementation of strategic planning and business plan has benefited the International School of Naples, Italy, Noel Compass Scholarship, and public school districts in Maryland and Wisconsin. Her educational journey following retirement has allotted time to pursue a bachelor's and master's degree at Antioch University. 

The inquisitive nature of Jacqueline's personality has enabled a life inhabiting many geographical locations within the United States and Europe. She enjoys exploring various cultures, ideologies, and the intersectionality of how daily life overlaps with many unexpected experiences. Writing poetry and journalistic op-ed articles allows her to internalize each concept and occurrence before adding the appropriate words to apply on a page. These words become affirmations for collaborations and positive outcomes. Her commentaries are meant to purposefully resonate with readers to reflect, motivate, and encourage the desire for lifelong learning and empathy toward understanding the human condition to better society. The most recent publications of Jacqueline's writing have been included in the anthology entitled Future Splender-Celebrating A New Renaissance, Sentience Literary Journal, and Odyssey Magazine.